As you drive on NH-7 leading to Bangalore International Airport, the fort of Devanahalli catches your eye and as you drive inside the fort the Venugopalaswamy Temple is the first temple that you come across.
Venugopalaswamy temple is built on the lines of Hoysala architecture. Though the temple is smaller than those of Belur and Halebid and less grand, it has an appeal of its own with sculpted four pillars.
Inner courtyard of the temple is spacious with a Garuda Stambha (Pillar). The temple structure consists of a Navaranga (outer hall), Mukhamantapa (inner hall), and a Garbagriha / Sanctum Santorum.
The two statues of Lord Vishnu installed at the sides of the gopuram (tower) were installed during the Ganga era. The walls of the temple depict scenes from Ramayana and life of Krishna as a child.
Lord Venugopalaswamy (Krishna) is the presiding deity. The idol is carved in Vijayanagara style, in a dancing pose. The annual festival is held in April and the carriage with the utsav murthy is taken in a procession around the town.
Place Statistics:
Type of place: Ancient temple
Situated: Devanahalli
Distance: 35 Kms from Bangalore
Transport: Well connected by road
Facilities: Nil
Timings: 7:30 a.m to 11:00 a.m and 6:00 p.m to 8:30 p.m
Address:
Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple
Kote,
Devanahalli Town